My population has formed me. I am made of history and stories. My matter is ancient wood and solid rock. Strong hands have built me. Every part of me had to be forced away from the wilderness. I am a relic of the time when people and nature were still living as one. I am no museum. I have no opening hours. I host neither shows nor attractions. There is only you and me. Take your time to discover my stories. I am the mountain village Goms. It is very nice to have you here.

A MOUNTAIN VILLAGE FULL OF LIFE, CULTURE AND NATURE

In Southern Switzerland, in the heart of the Alps, lies an untouched high valley called Goms. Twelve villages of Upper Goms – Niederwald, Blitzingen, Selkingen, Biel, Ritzingen, Gluringen, Reckingen, Münster, Geschinen, Ulrichen, Obergesteln and Oberwald – with a population of roughly 2000 appear to be from another time. All the villages protect their traditional structure and much of Switzerland’s most important cultural heritage is concentrated here. Hardly any other high valley in the Alps has been spared from negative impacts of modernity as well as Goms. Traditions are alive in this place. We respect our natural and cultural landscapes. People can find well-deserved rest here. You will find mountain village culture everywhere you go. The pristine nature is Goms’ most valuable treasure in summer and winter. You can get really close to nature while hiking, walking, cross-country skiing, skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking, ski touring, biking, mountaineering or cycling on altitudes between 1200 and 4000 metres.

A MOUNTAIN VILLAGE WITH A LONG TRADITION OF TOURISM

More than 150 years ago, the beautiful scenery in Goms attracted the first tourists. This makes Goms one of the pioneering tourist region of the Alps. Because of the pass routes of the high valley, dwellers, tradespeople and travellers have been populating Goms since the Celtic time. They have left their traces all over the place. The 31 hotels and 39 restaurants in the area have always been family-owned, which is a testimony of the great tradition of hospitality. The inns offer a broad palette ranging from simple mountain hut food to award-winning cuisines.